Sky is set to introduce a new feature called Real Time for Sky Glass and Sky Stream, aimed at reducing streaming delays for millions of Sky customers, just in time for the upcoming World Cup. This upgrade is designed to address the latency issues that have long plagued sports fans using services like BBC iPlayer and ITVX, which can lag behind traditional broadcasts by up to 40 seconds. By enabling Real Time, Sky hopes to minimize this delay, providing viewers with a more immediate and seamless viewing experience.
Initially launched for Premier League matches in 2024, the lower-latency streaming technology is now being expanded to include BBC and ITV coverage, allowing viewers to enjoy major events such as the World Cup with reduced delays. Sky’s statement emphasized that Real Time leverages Sky OS to bring live sports closer to real-time action, enabling viewers to follow matches with minimal lag and fewer spoilers.
To activate Real Time during supported live sports broadcasts, viewers can select the Real Time option on their screens using Sky Glass or Sky Stream devices. The feature is accessible through an opt-in button or dedicated channels like BBC One HD RT, ITV1 HD RT, and ITV4 HD RT. This update is crucial for Sky’s streaming future as it transitions away from the satellite-based Sky Q platform to broadband-based services like Sky Glass and Sky Stream. These services offer advantages such as easy self-installation, regular software updates, and seamless integration with popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Disney+.
As Sky focuses on internet-delivered television and enhanced streaming experiences, Sky Glass and Sky Stream remain central to its strategy, catering to viewers seeking a modern and streamlined entertainment experience.
